The high demand for data analysts has resulted in a growing need for professionals who can collect and interpret large data sets for organizations. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that jobs for data analysts will grow by 25 percent between 2020 and 2030. The best online data analytics bachelor’s degrees are great for those who don’t want to attend university in person.
Online data analytics bachelor’s degrees can be earned from the comfort of your home while still providing you with the training and skills needed to land data analytics bachelor’s degree jobs. In this article, we’ll break down all you need to know about where, how, and why you should get an online Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics.
Where Can I Get a Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Online?
The best schools where you can get a data analytics bachelor’s degree online include Colorado State University Global, DeVry University, Southern New Hampshire University, Washington State University, and Western Governors University. You can study data analytics online in these schools as they provide a high-quality education that prepares students to enter the workforce or move on to graduate and postgraduate studies.
What Schools Offer the Best Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degrees?
- Colorado State University Global
- DeVry University
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Washington State University
- Western Governors University
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree?
The admission requirements for an online Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics change from school to school, but usually include having a high school diploma or equivalent certification like a GED, having completed standardized tests such as SAT, ACT, or TOEFL, and submitting your official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or essay. Moreover, for an online Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics the GPA required is 2.0 or higher, and some schools may not even need you to have a minimum GPA.
Prospective students may also be required to attend an interview with the admissions officer regarding their experience with data analytics, high school GPA, or prior academic performance. Many schools also have a minimum age requirement which is usually 18, though this isn’t always the case.
Online Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Standardized tests such as SAT, ACT, or TOEFL
- Transcripts, personal statement or essay, and letters of recommendation
- GPA
- Interview
How to Get a Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Online
The best way to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics online is by fulfilling all of the graduation requirements set by the school. Typically, these include the completion of a total of 120 credits divided between general education courses, major-specific courses, and electives, maintaining a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0, and completing all of your financial obligations to the school.
Data Analytics Degree Requirements
- General education courses. A portion of the 120 credits required to earn your bachelor’s degree will come from general education courses. These usually lower-level courses in subjects like English, math, history, or humanities serve to broaden your education and make you a more well-rounded student and person.
- Major-specific courses. Major-specific courses generally take up the largest portion of the credits you need to earn during your bachelor’s degree. These courses are directly related to your major and serve to prepare you to work or continue your studies in the field of your chosen major.
- Elective courses. Every bachelor’s degree program requires its students to complete a certain number of credits in elective courses. These are typically major-specific courses in faculties outside of yours. As a data analytics major, elective courses could be in subjects such as music, philosophy, or biology.
- Maintain a sufficient GPA. Most bachelor’s degree programs require students to maintain a sufficiently high GPA to be eligible for graduation. Typically, this is a GPA of 2.0 out of a 4.0 scale. Naturally, graduating with a 2.0 GPA isn’t ideal, but it shows that you’ve learned enough to merit your diploma.
- Financial obligations. Other than tuition, you will have many other fees to pay as a student. These could be library fees, transcript request fees, and graduation fees. Your school will not let you graduate with an outstanding balance on your account.
Best Online Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Bachelor of Science in Business Data Analytics | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Colorado State University Global | Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems & Business Analytics | The Higher Learning Commission |
| DeVry University | Bachelor’s Degree Specialization in Big Data and Analytics | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Maryville University | Bachelor in Data Science | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Rasmussen University | Bachelor in Data Analytics | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Bachelor’s in Data Analytics | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| University of the Potomac | Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics and Management | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Utica College | Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Data Analytics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Washington State University | Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics | The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Western Governors University | Bachelor of Science in Online Data Analytics and Data Management | The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
Best Schools for Data Analytics: Top Online Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The best online schools for a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics will give you a comprehensive understanding of how to best collect, analyze, and use data. Most degree programs in data analytics teach the SAS, MATLAB, and R programming languages along with other key tools and technologies used in big data environments and business skills so you can communicate your findings to stakeholders.
The following is a breakdown of the top schools for online data analytics bachelor’s degrees, as well as their location, graduation rate, tuition, learning format, and required credits. This list will hopefully guide you during your school search and help you find the best data analytics bachelor’s degrees that cater to your particular needs and wants.
What Is an Online Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree?
An online data analytics bachelor’s degree is a virtual undergraduate degree program teaching how to gather large data sets, discover patterns, and derive meaningful insights from data using computer science, engineering, mathematics, and statistics fundamentals. Online degrees allow students to learn virtually through a computer rather than with physical classes.
Online bachelor’s degrees have the same quality of education as in-person degrees. Students have access to hands-on courses in computation, operating systems, network security, programming fundamentals, and web development. The duration of a typical online data analytics bachelor’s degree is four years, requiring the completion of 120 credits.
Online vs In-Person Data Analytics Degrees
The main difference between online and in-person data analytics degrees is the schedule flexibility they offer. However, each has its unique benefits and perks. Online degrees require you to learn via virtual means, while in-person degrees require you to physically attend classes on campus. Generally speaking, an online data analytics bachelor’s degree can be as good as a degree that includes in-person classes.
Traditional colleges usually have fixed calendars that use quarter or semester systems. Most online degrees use the same systems, but many also offer self-paced systems in which you can learn at whatever pace you want. The tuition for in-person programs is generally more expensive than for virtual learning bachelor’s degree programs.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics
- Self-paced. Students in online degree programs often benefit from being able to learn at their own pace. This is important for career switchers who may already have a busy schedule.
- Flexible. Online bachelor’s degrees allow you to learn from anywhere you can access the Internet. Some lectures are pre-recorded in video or presentation format and released to the students and can be accessed at any time.
- Less expensive. Online degrees are generally less costly than in-person degrees as they eliminate a large number of fees. As an online student, you won’t have to spend money on school-related costs such as accommodation, travel, or facility fees.
- Time-efficient. Some online programs are designed for students to take as much work as they are comfortable handling. This reduces the amount of time required to complete the necessary qualifications for earning the degree.
- Develops autonomy. Completing an online degree program requires students to be extremely self-motivated and autonomous. Developing this independence can help you greatly in your future endeavors after graduating.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics
- More interactive. In an in-person degree, you get to physically participate in an interactive class where you can more easily ask questions, collaborate with classmates, and engage in intellectual discussions, which can stimulate your brain more than doing so virtually.
- More fun. The experience of attending school with thousands of other students from different states and countries is unmatched. You get to participate in extracurricular activities, join clubs, and meet new people face-to-face.
- More resources. Another benefit of an in-person degree is access to physical resources such as libraries and other facilities like labs. These are great places to study, work on team projects, and relax.
- Better networking opportunities. Your ability to make meaningful connections and build a rapport with your teachers and classmates is much better when attending in-person classes. Building your network of like-minded people can better help you in your professional endeavors.
- Fewer distractions. In-person classes are often easier to engage with for students, as they have fewer chances of being distracted by their environment. A dedicated place of study can positively impact students’ mindsets, memory, and attention.
What Types of Online Bachelor’s Degrees Can You Get in Data Analytics?
You can get different types of online bachelor’s degrees in data analytics, such as a Bachelor of Science degree or a Bachelor of Business Administration. These degrees take different approaches toward data analytics, with the first focusing more on technical data science and programming skills, and the second focusing more on financial management, analysis, and communication.
Is It Better to Get a Bachelor’s Degree or a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics?
It’s better to get an online Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics because most data analytics jobs don’t require you to have a master’s. Master’s degree programs are expensive and often unnecessary for you to become a seasoned professional. A bachelor’s degree allows you to apply for most entry-level positions and move to higher-paying roles as you gain experience.
Furthermore, if you have a quick look on the Internet you will be able to find several free online classes. However, if you want to increase your chances of getting a high-paying job you must consider that it is not better to study data analytics through free online classes as they may not be as specialized as a bachelor’s degree.
How Much Does a Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Cost?
Online bachelor’s degree programs in data analytics cost $27,563 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics report regarding the average annual cost of college in the United States. The annual cost of getting your data analytics degree may fall below or above this price depending on the school you’re seeking to attend.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Online?
It takes four years to get an online Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics when taking a full-time course load. However, an online accelerated Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics may take around 18 months to complete.
Moreover, many schools use flexible learning systems in which you can study at your own pace and allow you to take more time. A bachelor’s degree requires 120-128 credits to complete, meaning you need to take about 15-16 credits per semester to complete in four years.
Are Online Data Analytics Degrees Respected?
Yes, online data analytics degrees are respected as they are accredited the same way as in-person degrees. With the increasing prevalence of distance learning, the global mobile learning industry could hit $80.1 billion by 2027. Online degrees are less expensive, flexible, great for social distancing, and provide the same courses as their in-person counterparts.
You can find accredited online data analytics courses by accessing university websites to see what programs they offer or look on platforms such as Career Karma which offers many resources on how to find the best online data analytics courses.
Is Data Analytics Hard to Learn Online?
Yes, an online Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics can be hard to learn. This is because online data analytics classes can sometimes be challenging to follow as they include learning technical skills such as programming and web development. These skills will require a lot of self-motivation and autonomy. However, with hard work, dedication, and the right resources, you can successfully learn data analytics online.
Data Analytics Bootcamp vs Online Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree: Which Is Better?
An online data analytics bachelor’s degree is better than data science coding bootcamps because it gives you access to more job opportunities, especially if you are coming out of high school. That being said, working professionals looking to upskill or reskill may find more value in a bootcamp. There are several benefits of a data analytics degree vs an online bootcamp. We have compiled a list of these benefits below.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree
- High demand. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 10,200 annual job openings for operations research analysts between 2020 and 2030. Getting a degree in data analytics positions you to benefit from this high demand, especially considering the wide demand for degree-holding data analysts across various industries.
- Career advancement. Although bootcamps can help you get an entry-level data analytics job, they can only take you so far. Having a bachelor’s degree becomes useful for accelerating your growth in the field and taking on more advanced roles. Many higher-paying jobs require applicants to have at least a bachelor’s degree.
- Broader learning experience. Unlike coding bootcamps, which focus solely on in-demand data analytics skills, degree programs provide business, management, and general education courses. Online degree holders tend to be more well-rounded and versatile.
- Extensive networking. Online data analytics degrees allow you to network with your faculty, peers, and alumni. Degree programs help you meet people from diverse fields and specializations and build a vast professional network. This can help you get updates on various industry trends and employment opportunities.
- Competitive salary. Working in an in-demand career usually comes with lucrative salary packages. Data analytics jobs benefit from this. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary of data analysts is $82,360 per year, and a bachelor’s degree will help you easily land jobs paying this much.
Top 5 Benefits of a Data Analytics Bootcamp
- Program length. Bootcamp certificates take significantly less time to earn than bachelor’s degrees. They offer a fast-paced non-traditional learning pathway that typically takes a few months to complete. This makes it an extremely attractive option for working professionals looking to reskill or upskill.
- Cost. Compared to college, data analytics bootcamps are cheaper. According to Career Karma’s State of the Bootcamp Market Report 2020, the average tuition for online coding bootcamps is $14,623. In addition, they provide various payment plans like ISAs, deferred payments, and installment payments that help to make the programs more accessible.
- Learning methods. Instructors at coding bootcamps are usually working industry professionals. They deliver an updated curriculum in interactive classrooms and provide personalized assistance to students. Students learn hands-on methods to handle real-world problems, which helps in building their professional experience.
- Career opportunities. Data analytics bootcamps equip students for entry-level positions. For career switchers and tech newbies, getting that first job can be challenging. Bootcamps provide extensive career support, helping students achieve their career goals by assisting them in job searching and preparing for interviews.
- Specialization. Data analytics bootcamps offer career-focused training developing the necessary practical skills for kickstarting a data analysis career. They teach additional skills such as how to write a resume and search for a job, giving you an edge in the labor market.
Why You Should Get a Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Online
You should get a data analytics bachelor’s degree online because of the several perks it offers. They are more flexible and often have self-paced learning options, which helps you save time and money. It also enables you to build self-discipline and autonomy, as you will be working in a less structured learning environment.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Bachelor’s Degree Program in Data Analytics?
The online bachelor’s degree program in data analytics you take will generally cover courses like network security, web development, and operating systems. Based on your desired career path, data analytics courses may not be enough to help you climb the career ladder, so you might have to go back to university to further your knowledge and skills.
To help you in your career journey in achieving success, we have listed some of the best bachelor’s degree data analytics online courses below.
Database Management
This course covers the collection, storage, design, control, and protection of data to optimize performance, efficiency, privacy, and security. It also teaches the proper maintenance, organization, and use of data analytics software for the retrieval of large data sets to maximize efficiency when solving business problems.
Operating Systems
This course covers the most important software applications in computer systems. In this course, you’ll learn to manage databases on different operating systems such as Linux, Apple macOS, Apple iOS, Microsoft Windows, and Google Android OS.
Network Security
The study of network security covers the processes and strategies to detect, monitor, and prevent risks and threats to computer network resources. You will acquire the skills of a security analyst, which are used in protecting data from security breaches and unauthorized access.
Programming Fundamentals
Programming literacy is extremely important in the world of data analytics. There are plenty of coding languages you can choose to learn, such as Python, C++, and Java. In a programming fundamentals class, you’ll learn basic coding syntax used in data analytics.
Web Development
With this course of study, you’ll learn the process involved in building websites, web applications, and social network services. You’ll also get to study the technicalities of designing a site to maximize its speed, performance, and capacity, as well as the management of traffic.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
The best path to take with an online data analytics bachelor’s degree includes getting a master’s degree and various certifications. An online continuing professional education in data analytics can offer you access to higher-paying positions. Certification courses can give you an edge in the job market and increase your employability.
Related Online Data Analytics Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Things to look for in the best data analytics bachelor’s degree programs include their cost, accreditation, flexibility, employment outcomes, and graduation rate. Knowing these can help you figure out if a program is right for you.
Cost
The cost of obtaining an analytics degree will differ from school to school but is always expensive, even with the help of financial aid. When looking at different schools and programs, consider the cost, financial aid opportunities, and your budget.
Accreditation
Accreditation serves as proof that an educational program has been vetted by an external body. Accredited degrees hold much more value during the job application process than diplomas or certifications that haven’t been accredited. During your school search, make sure that the degree you’re interested in has been properly accredited.
Flexibility
One of the major reasons many students opt for online programs is the flexibility it grants them in terms of where and when they can study. Before enrolling in a program, consider whether or not their curriculum caters to students wanting to study at their own pace or part-time.
Employment Outcomes
Looking at a school’s employment outcomes will give you a good idea of how successful its graduates are. If a school program has a low employment outcome rate, this can be a significant sign that the education it provides isn’t very beneficial to its students.
Graduation Rate
A school’s graduation rate can give you an impression of whether or not its courses and teachers are engaging as well as whether or not the school provides adequate support to its students. A high graduation rate is a sign of a school that provides a great environment in which its students learn.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree?
The most affordable online data analytics bachelor’s degree program is offered by The University of the Potomac in Washington DC. It has a tuition fee of $6,660 at $240 per credit hour. Over the entirety of the four-year degree, you’ll pay a total of $53,280.
Can I Get a Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Online for Free?
No, you can’t get a free online Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics. However, you can learn data analytics online for free by pursuing different avenues like enrolling in Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) or using resources like MIT’s OpenCourseWare. You can also apply for financial aid like grants, loans, and scholarships. Federal funding is available for any accredited program, including online colleges.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
After completing an online degree, finding employment is the next venture on the minds of many graduates. While it may not be an easy process, interning and building a stellar portfolio can facilitate getting a job in data analytics.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree?
It’s not hard to get a job with a data analytics online degree. The US News & World Report stated that online degrees are becoming increasingly accepted by employers. Online students learn to work remotely and autonomously, which can benefit them greatly in data analytics jobs. They also learn other soft skills such as communication and collaboration. Hence, if you attend online data analytics courses, you can find a job in this field.
What’s the Average Online Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with an online data analytics bachelor’s degree is $62,838 per year, according to PayScale. The amount you will make will differ depending on your experience, the company you work for, and the location of your job. An online Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics salary will increase as you gain more experience in this industry.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with an online data analytics bachelor’s degree include working as a database administrator, data engineer, data analytics consultant, big data engineer, business intelligence analyst, data scientist, quantitative analyst, or data modeler. You can also become a data analyst with hard work and the right information.
Data Analytics Degree Jobs
- Data Analyst
- Data Scientist
- Database Administrator
- Data Engineer
- Business Intelligence Analyst
Potential Careers With an Online Data Analytics Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree?
You can make between $86,000 to $127,000 a year with an online Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics. The amount you earn is typically influenced by your work experience, the size of the company you are working for, and your job title.
Highest-Paying Online Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Data Scientist | $131,490 |
| Database Administrator | $98,860 |
| Data Engineer | $93,269 |
| Business Intelligence Analyst | $93,000 |
| Data Analyst | $62,838 |
Best Jobs for Online Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Grads
Some of the best jobs for online bachelor’s degree holders in data analytics include working as a data analyst, data scientist, database administrator, data engineer, and business intelligence analyst. All of them earn a salary high above the national average and provide plenty of opportunity for growth as you gain experience.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Online Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online data analytics bachelor’s degree is worth it if you are looking to earn a lucrative salary in the tech industry. If you enjoy finding patterns and solving puzzles, then you should become a data analyst. You can kickstart a career in data analytics thanks to an online Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics.
Additional Reading About Data Analytics
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Online Data Analytics Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
Yes, you can be a data analyst with a bachelor’s degree. A bachelor’s degree is a prerequisite for most entry-level jobs in the field of data analysis. You can also get a master’s degree to increase your chances for career growth.
A Bachelor of Science in data analytics is the best degree for becoming a data analyst because of the technical and theoretical skills it teaches and the job opportunities it opens its recipients to.
BS in data analytics stands for Bachelor of Science. It is an undergraduate degree that equips college students with the knowledge and skills they need to become professional data analysts.
Yes, a data analyst can work remotely. The demand for data science is increasing, and so are remote job openings. There are about 20,000 remote job listings in the United States on LinkedIn.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
